Anti-Protectionist Group Taps Michelin PR Exec

The Consuming Industries Trade Action Coalition, a group of companies opposed to trade sanctions, has named Michael Fanning, vice president for public relations and government affairs at Michelin North America, as its head.

WASHINGTON, D.C., August 12—The Consuming Industries Trade Action Coalition, a group of companies opposed to trade sanctions, has named Michael Fanning, vice president for public relations and government affairs at Michelin North America, as its head.

Incorporated in 2001, CITAC is a coalition of companies and trade associations representing the interests of American consuming industries in the trade policymaking process. CITAC’s mission is to promote trade policies in which U.S. consuming industries and their workers have access to global markets for raw materials and other imports that enhance the international competitiveness of U.S. firms.

Fanning joined Greenville, S.C.-based Michelin North America in 1999 and was appointed to his current position a year later.

“Michelin is a founding member of CITAC and I’m proud to reaffirm our commitment to this organization and its goals by serving as chairman,” said Fanning. “CITAC is telling the story of the new silent majority—the industries and workers in this country that lose out from protectionism. Through continued research-based advocacy with trade policymakers, CITAC will ensure that the process is more balanced and responsive to consumers and U.S. manufacturers.”

The Bush administration has drawn the ire of free trade advocates by imposing tariffs on steel imports and on Canadian lumber.